Do you often find yourself dreaming of a smoother, more comfortable travel experience on Southwest Airlines? Perhaps you've heard whispers of "Business Select" and wondered what exactly it entails and, more importantly, how much it costs to upgrade? Well, you've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about upgrading to Business Select on Southwest Airlines, step by step, ensuring you're well-equipped for your next journey.
Unlocking a Premium Experience: Upgrading to Southwest Business Select
Southwest Airlines is known for its unique open-seating policy and "Bags Fly Free" philosophy (though recent changes have introduced fees for some fare types, Business Select retains this perk!). While they don't have a traditional "first class" cabin, Business Select is their most premium fare option, offering a host of valuable benefits for travelers seeking a more elevated journey.
Let's dive into the details of what you get and how to make the upgrade a reality.
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| How Much Is It To Upgrade To Business Select On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understanding Southwest's Fare Types - Are You Ready for an Upgrade?
Before we talk about upgrading, it's crucial to understand Southwest's different fare categories. This will help you identify where your current ticket stands and what you're aiming for. Southwest currently offers four primary fare types:
Basic (formerly Wanna Get Away): This is the most economical fare, offering the fewest perks. It's non-refundable (you get a flight credit if you cancel, which expires in six months) and has the lowest Rapid Rewards earning rate. As of May 28, 2025, Basic fares are subject to checked bag fees.
Wanna Get Away Plus: A step up from Basic, offering a better Rapid Rewards earning rate, transferable flight credits (valid for 12 months), and eligibility for free same-day confirmed changes (taxes and fees may apply). Checked bag fees may still apply.
Anytime: These fares are fully refundable to your original form of payment if canceled at least 10 minutes before departure. They include EarlyBird Check-In and a higher Rapid Rewards earning rate. Checked bag fees may still apply.
Business Select: The cr�me de la cr�me of Southwest fares, offering the most comprehensive benefits. This is what we'll be focusing on upgrading to!
Engage the user: So, which fare type did you originally book? Knowing this is your first step towards unlocking a more premium travel experience!
Step 2: Deciphering the Benefits of Business Select - Why Upgrade?
Why would you want to upgrade to Business Select? It's not just about a higher price tag; it's about a significantly enhanced travel experience. Here's a breakdown of the key perks:
Guaranteed A1-A15 Boarding Position: This is perhaps the most sought-after benefit. With Southwest's open seating, securing an A1-A15 boarding position means you'll be among the first to board the plane. This gives you your pick of seats (think window, aisle, or even an exit row for extra legroom, if available), and ample overhead bin space for your carry-on. No more scrambling to find a spot!
Fully Refundable Fares: Plans change, and with Business Select, you have the ultimate flexibility. If you cancel your reservation at least 10 minutes prior to departure, you'll receive a 100% refund to your original form of payment.
Two Free Checked Bags: Unlike some of the other fare types (especially post-May 2025 changes for Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares), Business Select continues to include two free checked bags. This can save you a significant amount in baggage fees, especially if you're traveling with a lot of luggage.
Complimentary Premium Drink: On flights of 176 miles or more, you'll receive a coupon for a complimentary premium alcoholic beverage (for those 21 and over) or other non-alcoholic options. A nice little treat to kick off your journey!
Free Inflight Internet: Stay connected while you fly! Business Select passengers enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access, perfect for catching up on emails, Browse the web, or staying in touch with loved ones.
Highest Rapid Rewards Points Earning Rate: Business Select fares earn you the most Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent (currently 14 points per dollar). This means you'll accrue points much faster, getting you closer to your next free flight even quicker.
Priority Lane Access (where available): Speed through check-in and security with dedicated Fly By® Priority Check-In and Security Lanes at select airports. This can be a huge time-saver, especially during peak travel times.
Same-Day Change/Standby Flexibility: While other fare types have some restrictions, Business Select offers the most seamless same-day change and standby options, allowing you to switch to another flight on the same calendar day between the same origin and destination, if space is available, without airline charges.
Step 3: The Cost of Upgrading - Understanding the Price Tag
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.
The cost to upgrade to Business Select on Southwest Airlines isn't a fixed price. It's a fare difference between your original fare type and the current Business Select fare for your specific flight. This means:
It's dynamic: The price will fluctuate based on demand, how far in advance you're upgrading, and the specific route. Just like any other airfare, prices can go up or down.
You pay the difference: If you originally booked a Basic fare, the cost to upgrade to Business Select will be the difference between the Basic fare you paid and the current Business Select fare for that flight. The same applies if you're upgrading from Wanna Get Away Plus or Anytime.
Points vs. Cash: You can typically pay the fare difference with either cash or Rapid Rewards points. If you're paying with points, the number of points required will also reflect the fare difference.
Here's a general idea of how the cost works (illustrative examples):
Let's say you initially booked a flight for $100 as a Basic fare.
If the Business Select fare for that same flight is now $250, your upgrade cost would be $150.
If you booked an Anytime fare for $180, and the Business Select is $250, your upgrade cost would be $70.
Important Note: You cannot simply pay a small flat fee to "upgrade" your boarding position to A1-A15 unless you purchase a Business Select fare. While Southwest does offer "Upgraded Boarding" at the gate (which gives you an A1-A15 position if available), this is a separate purchase and doesn't convert your existing fare to Business Select with all its associated benefits (like refunds, free bags, or Wi-Fi). Upgraded Boarding at the gate typically costs from $30 per segment, per customer, and is subject to availability.
Step 4: Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrading to Business Select
Ready to make the leap to Business Select? Here's how you can do it:
Sub-heading: Online Through the Southwest Website or App
This is generally the easiest and most common method.
Access Your Reservation:
Go to Southwest.com or open the Southwest Airlines mobile app.
Click on "Change Flight" or navigate to "Manage Reservations."
Enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name to pull up your booking.
Select "Change Flight" or "Upgrade":
Once your reservation is displayed, look for an option to "Change Flight" or "Upgrade." Southwest's interface is quite intuitive, and you should see clear prompts.
Choose Your New Fare (Business Select):
You'll likely see a list of available flights for your route and dates.
Carefully review the fare types for each flight option. Select the "Business Select" option. You'll see the corresponding cash price or Rapid Rewards points required.
Review the Fare Difference:
The system will automatically calculate the difference between your original fare and the new Business Select fare.
Ensure you understand the total cost before proceeding. This amount could be zero if you're lucky and the Business Select fare has dropped, or it could be a significant amount.
Complete the Payment:
If there's a fare difference, you'll be prompted to provide payment information (credit card or use Rapid Rewards points, if eligible and sufficient).
Confirm the upgrade.
Receive Confirmation:
You'll receive a new confirmation email with your updated itinerary and the Business Select fare details. Your new boarding position (A1-A15) will be automatically assigned 36 hours prior to departure, without you needing to check in at that exact time.
Sub-heading: Via Southwest Customer Service (Phone or Airport)
While the online method is preferred, you can also upgrade by contacting Southwest directly:
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
Call Customer Service:
Dial Southwest Airlines' customer service number. Be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.
Have your confirmation number and personal details ready.
Clearly state that you wish to upgrade your existing reservation to a Business Select fare.
Explain Your Request:
The representative will look up your reservation and inform you of the fare difference.
Provide Payment:
You'll provide your payment information over the phone.
Confirm and Receive New Itinerary:
The representative will process the upgrade and send you a new confirmation.
At the Airport (Less Common for Full Fare Upgrade):
While you can inquire about changing your fare at the airport ticket counter, it's generally not recommended as the primary method for a full Business Select upgrade. Availability might be limited, and the process can be slower. This method is more commonly used for "Upgraded Boarding" (A1-A15 position only, not a full fare upgrade) on the day of travel, if available.
Step 5: When to Consider Upgrading - Is it Worth It for You?
The decision to upgrade to Business Select depends entirely on your travel priorities and budget. Consider these scenarios:
Time-Sensitive Travel: If you're on a business trip and need to ensure you get off the plane quickly, or simply value efficiency, the guaranteed early boarding can be invaluable.
Carrying Checked Bags: If you consistently check two bags, the included baggage allowance with Business Select can offset a significant portion of the upgrade cost.
Desire for Flexibility: The fully refundable nature of Business Select offers peace of mind if your plans are uncertain.
Value for Wi-Fi and Drinks: If you typically purchase in-flight Wi-Fi and enjoy a complimentary beverage, these perks add to the value proposition.
Maximizing Rapid Rewards Points: For frequent Southwest flyers, the higher earning rate can accelerate your path to elite status or free flights.
Personal Comfort and Preference: Sometimes, the simple joy of choosing your preferred seat and settling in without a rush is worth the extra cost.
Conversely, an upgrade might not be worth it if:
You're on a tight budget.
You travel light with only a carry-on.
You don't care about a specific boarding position.
You're on a very short flight where the benefits aren't as impactful.
Step 6: Final Considerations and Tips
Check the Fare Difference Regularly: If you're contemplating an upgrade, keep an eye on the Business Select fares for your desired flight. Prices can change, and you might find a better deal closer to your travel date or further out.
A-List/A-List Preferred Status: If you hold A-List or A-List Preferred status with Southwest, you already receive some similar benefits, such as priority boarding (though not guaranteed A1-A15 unless you book Business Select), priority lanes, and even free Wi-Fi for A-List Preferred. This might impact the perceived value of upgrading.
Group Bookings and Unaccompanied Minors: Be aware that certain restrictions or different processes might apply for group bookings or when traveling with unaccompanied minors. Always verify with Southwest directly if you fall into these categories.
Read the Fine Print: Always review the specific terms and conditions associated with any fare change or upgrade on Southwest's website to ensure you understand all policies.
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10 Related FAQ Questions:
Here are some frequently asked questions about upgrading to Business Select on Southwest Airlines, with quick answers:
How to check my current Southwest fare type?
You can find your current fare type by logging into your Southwest account on Southwest.com or the mobile app and accessing your reservation details under "Manage Reservations."
Tip: Highlight sentences that answer your questions.
How to upgrade to Business Select using Rapid Rewards points?
When changing your flight online to Business Select, if you have enough Rapid Rewards points, the system will typically offer you the option to pay the fare difference in points.
How to get a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position without buying Business Select?
The only other way to get a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position is by purchasing "Upgraded Boarding" at the gate on the day of travel, subject to availability. This is not a full upgrade to Business Select and doesn't include all its benefits.
How to know if Business Select is available on my flight?
When searching for or changing a flight on Southwest.com or the app, the Business Select fare option will be displayed if it's available for that specific flight.
How to get a refund if I cancel a Business Select ticket?
If you cancel a Business Select ticket at least 10 minutes prior to your flight's scheduled departure, you are eligible for a 100% refund to your original form of payment.
How to get free checked bags on Southwest without Business Select?
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
As of May 28, 2025, only Business Select fares guarantee two free checked bags. Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members also receive two free checked bags, and A-List members and Rapid Rewards credit card holders get one free checked bag.
How to access free in-flight Wi-Fi on Southwest?
Free in-flight Wi-Fi is a benefit of Business Select fares and A-List Preferred status. Otherwise, Wi-Fi can be purchased onboard.
How to use a complimentary premium drink coupon from Business Select?
You'll typically receive a physical or digital drink coupon with your Business Select boarding pass. Present it to the flight attendant when ordering your complimentary premium drink.
How to change my flight on the same day if I have Business Select?
Business Select fares allow for free same-day confirmed changes to another flight on the same calendar day between the same origin and destination, if space is available. You can typically do this online or through the app.
How to earn more Rapid Rewards points with Business Select?
Business Select fares earn the highest number of Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent (14 points per dollar), automatically boosting your point balance compared to other fare types.
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